Chemistry 9701 · AS & A Level · Atomic structure

Atomic structure — practice question

During nuclear reactions, the products formed are not the same elements as those that have reacted. These changes are shown using nuclear equations, for example the one below. $^{235}_{92}\text{U} + ^1_0\text{n} \rightarrow ^{144}_{56}\text{Ba} + ^{89}_{36}\text{Kr} + 3^1_0\text{n}$ The total nucleon (mass) number remains 236, and the total proton number stays 92. In a different nuclear reaction, uranium-238 is made to react with deuterium atoms, $^2_1\text{H}$. An isotope of a new element, J, is produced together with two neutrons. $^{238}_{92}\text{U} + ^2_1\text{H} \rightarrow \text{J} + 2^1_0\text{n}$ Which isotope is J?

  • A$^{238}\text{Np}$
  • B$^{238}\text{Pu}$
  • C$^{240}\text{Np}$
  • D$^{240}\text{Pu}$

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